The union said on Sunday it applied for leave to appeal the interdict, granted by the Labour Court to the Department of Public Service and Administration, thus allowing its members to go on strike over wages as planned.

This means that Section 18 of the Superior Courts Act 10 of 2013 applies, which automatically suspends the operation of the court order until leave to appeal is determined, reports The Citizen. 

The union rejected a 4,7% salary increase offer from the government to its members, as they wanted a 10% to 12% hike. 

Nehawu says the strike demonstrates "the importance of public servants". Essential services such as healthcare and education will be affected. 

Nehawu on Monday reminded its members it is a protected strike: "The filing of the appeal effectively suspends the order. As such, the strike is proceeding on Monday. 

'Hard work undone'

According to the union, the government has prioritised reversing and erasing the progress made by workers in previous years. "This is clear by the government’s eagerness to approach labour courts in resolving matters of collective bargaining, instead of communicating with the various institutions and bargaining councils involved.

Nehawu says workers are still undervalued and forced to work in poor conditions, despite being the backbone of South Africa.

'Public servants not appreciated'

The union claims public service in South Africa weakened significantly, particularly when it comes to capacity. This, it says, is due to the moratorium on filling vacancies resulting from years of the Treasury’s austerity measures.

"This is why the union is determined to continue with the public protest on Monday, to demonstrate the seriousness of the matter to the government." 

Impact of service strike

The public service strike will affect essential services, such as healthcare, education, social services, as well as municipal services. 

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